On November 12, 2024, at approximately 3:30 a.m., Turlock Police Department officers responded to a 9-1-1 call reporting a shooting in the 1800 block of Lander Avenue. Upon arrival, they discovered 18-year-old Jose Tamayo-Morales of Modesto suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite immediate CPR efforts by an officer, Tamayo-Morales was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators quickly determined that the shooting resulted from an altercation between Tamayo-Morales and the suspect. Witness statements and physical evidence led to the identification of both the suspect and the suspect's vehicle. Utilizing License Plate Reader (LPR) technology, and with assistance from the Modesto and Ceres Police Departments, authorities tracked down and arrested 59-year-old Modesto resident Troy Cannon just hours after the incident. Cannon was subsequently booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on murder charges.
Turlock Police Chief Jason Hedden highlighted the pivotal role of technology in the swift resolution of the case, stating, "With the aid of license plate reader technology, our detectives were able to swiftly gather critical information and locate the suspect." The department also expressed gratitude to the Modesto and Ceres Police Departments for their crucial assistance during the investigation.
The tragic death of Jose Tamayo-Morales has left a profound void in the lives of his family and community. A graduate of Modesto High School, he was remembered as a kind and determined individual, excited about his future with his fiancée, Gabriela Mendoza, who is expecting their child. Funeral services were held on November 27, 2024, at St. Jude's Catholic Church in Ceres, California, followed by interment at Ceres Memorial Park.
The Turlock Police Department continues to encourage anyone with additional information regarding this case to contact Detective Giovacchini at (209) 668-6539 or the department's Tip Line at (209) 668-5550 extension 6780. Anonymous tips can also be provided through Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636 or online at www.stancrimetips.org.
